Newcastle boss Eddie Howe says it would feel like a “betrayal” if the club had to leave St James’ Park to compete with European football’s elite.
The Magpies’ Saudi-backed owners revealed this week that they will make a decision early next year whether to redevelop the current stadium or build a new venue.
Speaking on the eve of Saturday’s Premier League trip to Everton, who are close to moving to their own new home, Howe said: “My natural instinct was always to stay at St James’ Park.
“It’s an incredible place to play football, it’s our home, so to think about moving somewhere else feels a little bit of a betrayal to somewhere that’s served us so well.
“But we are well aware that as a football club, we need to increase our revenue, so people with more brain cells will make the decision for the benefit of the long-term future of the football club, and that’s always the most important thing.
Eddie Howe on playing home and away:
"The energy that the crowd give us [to press], the feeling of if a player goes or he doesn’t, that has served us so well at home. It is different away from home. Tactically, it is about our delivery, how we implement that. It is just being… pic.twitter.com/LNmlVO6dG4
— Newcastle United FC (@NUFC) October 4, 2024
“I could be swayed, but just my natural instinct is to want to stay.”
‘They have never been fit together’
Howe will once again be without his two main strikers in Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson – meaning Anthony Gordon will likely lead the line against his former side.
Isak in particular is a huge loss and Howe says the club need them back soon.
“I don’t think they have been fit together,” he said.
“It’s had a negative impact on the team, they need each other to keep performing well because of the competition. They are two hugely influential players off the pitch. We are a much better team when they are both around.
“You have players who add to the spirit of the dressing room. Callum is always laughing and brings energy but he’s also a serious player and wants to win and wants to help Newcastle to win trophies. When he’s fit he’s an incredible player and we want him back as soon as possible.”
Newcastle would keep pace with the top four with a win at Goodison Park – although Everton have lost just three of their last 20 Premier League home games against Newcastle.
